Using an experimental manipulation of contaminants in intertidal sediments

Manipulative experiments in the field are important tools, for improving un derstanding of disturbances, such as contaminants, causing environmental im pacts. We tested a method to create patches of increased concentrations of metals in intertidal sediments. The method produced persistent concentratio ns of metals, which were as large as those observed in contaminated areas a nd it appears to be applicable in different habitats. The utility of this t echnique as a tool to improve predictions about environmental effects needs to be evaluated by repeated experimentation.